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Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Crossing, MA

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Quick Facts

1973
Founded
Public community college
Type
2,382
Total Students
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: President

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Community College: A beacon of community activism, educational opportunity, and student success.

Roxbury Community College (RCC) stands as a vibrant cornerstone of Boston's educational landscape, born from decades of dedicated community activism. Established in 1973, RCC is more than just a college; it’s a living testament to the power of collective action, reflecting a rich history where community organizing shaped its very existence and even halted a major highway extension. Today, RCC continues this legacy of empowerment, fostering an environment where students don't just learn, but also become part of a significant movement.

As a federally classified Predominately Black Institution (PBI) since 2021, RCC is uniquely positioned to offer targeted support and resources that promote the educational success of Black students. The college is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community impact, evidenced by its ranking as the second most influential community college in the nation in 2021. Students benefit from modern facilities including specialized science and computer laboratories, and engage with dynamic programs such as a newly developed nursing program.

Beyond academics, RCC cultivates a rich student experience with facilities like the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center and the RCC Media Arts Center, providing avenues for both athletic and artistic development. The college fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, recently highlighted by a generous $1,000 gift to each graduate from local philanthropists, underscoring the community's investment in student futures. With a proud history and an eye toward future success, Roxbury Community College prepares its 2,382 students to thrive, making a tangible difference in their lives and the broader community.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1973, emerging from significant community activism in Boston's Black community.
  • Recognized as the second most influential community college in the nation in 2021.
  • Federally classified as a Predominately Black Institution (PBI), receiving grants to support Black students' educational success.
  • Offers a newly developed nursing program, provisionally approved by BORN in October 2020.
  • Campus features specialized science and computer laboratories, plus the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center and RCC Media Arts Center.
  • Served 2,382 students and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023.
  • In 2022, each graduate received a $1,000 gift from philanthropists Robert and Karen Hale.

Timeline

1968
Massachusetts legislature officially established a community college at Roxbury, following decades of activism.
1973
Roxbury Community College opened its doors to 400 students.
1982
Brunetta Wolfman was elected as RCC's first female president.
1988
The college's current 16-acre campus at 1234 Columbus Avenue opened.
1992
Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide received an honorary degree during a ceremony at RCC.
2020
RCC developed a new nursing program, provisionally approved by BORN.
2021
Classified by the Department of Education as a Predominately Black Institution (PBI).
2021
Named the second most influential community college in the nation.
2022
Philanthropists Robert and Karen Hale provided $1,000 to each RCC graduate.
2023
Celebrated 50th anniversary, commemorating its roots in anti-highway community activism.
🏛️
53 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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